"Built to beat Ducati on the track, beautifully made and sounds awesome"

Overall Rating
5 out of 5

Even today the SP is a very special bike and while it lacks the instant character that you get with a 916, the Honda is still packed full of spirit. It's just refined, smooth and polite in a typical Japanese fashion rather than outwardly flamboyant like an Italian. Does it justify the high prices on the used market? People are paying even more for the 916, why shouldn't a Honda model be as exclusive as a Ducati?

Watch the Honda SP-2 take on the Ducati 1098 and the Aprilia RSV1000R in our V-twin sports bike test

Ride Quality & Brakes
4 out of 5

Like most V-twins, the Honda SP1/2 series need a bit more rider input than the average four when cornering hard. The ride is harsh on both motorcycles, with a massive twin spar frame as the backbone of the motorcycle and firm suspension. The Honda SP1/2 really needs a racetrack to appreciate the abilities of the chassis, as it just seems too hard and unforgiving on many normal roads.

Engine
4 out of 5

A truly great motor, ruined by a glitchy fuel injection system, especially on the Honda SP1 which is sometimes unpredictable at low rpm. With 133bhp at 10,000rpm the Honda SP2 is 4bhp up on the Honda SP1, but the later model feels easier to ride, thanks to bigger throttle bodies and a better 12 point injector system feeding it.

Build Quality & Reliability
5 out of 5

The Honda SP1/2 feels like it was made in the HRC race shop, not an anonymous factory. Every detail fits together just right, the Honda SP1/2 has an aura of engineering excellence and durability than many other Honda machines sadly lack. Apart from chinning fuel at 30mpg, the Honda SP1/2 has no real faults and if you were some kind of sick masochist, you could probably despatch on it.

Insurance, running costs & value
4 out of 5

The Honda SP1 enjoyed respectable UK sales, but was soon discounted as dealers realised people wouldn't pay vast sums for what was perceived (wrongly) as a jazzed up Firestorm. The Honda SP2 struggled to hold its 10K list price too, dropping to about 8K new in late 2002. Now people realise how exclusive they were and prices on the used market reflect this. You'll do really well to get hold of one for under £5000. Find a Honda SP-2 for sale.

Equipment
4 out of 5

The Honda SP1/2 oozes class. There's little doubt that Honda lost money on each one of them, even at ten grand a pop. Beautiful machined alloy parts, an exquisite swingarm on the Honda SP2, top notch Showa suspension, stunning brakes - the Honda SP series bikes are a techie's delight to look at - and the dashboard looks like it came straight off a Suzuka endurance racer. Spartan but sexy.

Version :
My bike's actually a SP1. But that wasn't an option in the drop down box.

Year :
2000

Annual servicing cost :
£150

Snatchy throttle, but everyone knows that. Not as terrible as it's made out to be though. Looks and sounds lovely. A piece of history...sticking 2 fingers to Ducati.
Joey Dunlop's last big bike TT win.

Ride Quality & Brakes

4 out of 5

Ride is hard, but what do you expect from a homologation sportsbike.
Brakes were probably sublime 18 years ago, but things have moved on. Still good though.

Engine

5 out of 5

Not the most powerful engine, but very grunty.

Build Quality & Reliability

5 out of 5

This is an old bike now (18 years). Everything still looks good.

Value & Running Costs

5 out of 5

No need to pay silly main dealer prices on something this old.

Equipment

4 out of 5

Best thing about this bike is how it makes you feel. Oh, and the noise......oooooh the noise. Pirelli Supercorsas work well.

Buying experience

Bought (used) from a Honda main dealer. No issues.

4 out of 5

A reliable V twin

04 June 2018
by
AndyN

Version :
SP1

Year :
2001

I've done over 50,000 miles on this bike, everything from trackdays to touring. Fueling easily sorted with a Power Commander, comfort improved with a replacement seat, and the Brakes and clutch improved with Brembo RCS master cylinders. My suspension is standard, and as good as any Ohlins suspended bike I've ridden.
Power delivery is very linear, and free reving and although it delivers around 50bhp less than todays bikes it is only really noticeable on the track.
Very limited modifications you can make to the riding position, so you do have to accept where the bars are unless to are prepared to butcher the fairing to raise them.

Ride Quality & Brakes

5 out of 5

-

Engine

4 out of 5

-

Build Quality & Reliability

5 out of 5

Standard radiators are weak, I've had two LHS rads fail after 15K miles each due to fatigue caused by the way they are mounted to the lower bracket. This was re-designed for the SP2. I had a custom rad made which has lasted much longer. Wiring is quite delicate so care needed with connectors. Oil light can come on in torrential rain if oil pressure switch not well protected from the elements.

Value & Running Costs

5 out of 5

Seems to require new head races every 10K miles. Valve check at 15K, but so far only needed re-shimming at 30K miles, and adjustment was minor. Throttle cables have a tight radius at the throttle bodies and fray after around 30K miles, you have to remove the tank and air-box to replace the cables, and both of these items are fiddly.

Equipment

4 out of 5

-

5 out of 5

Power of dreams!

11 January 2016
by
HRCinmygarage

Year :
2000

I'll admit I'm a huge Honda fan. Growing up watching racing in the 80's & 90's I always saw Honda as the benchmark and dreamed of having something touched by HRC one day. I had pictures of NSR's, RC30's & 45's on my wall as a kid but they were always going to be out of reach at the time. When the SP1 came out and after seeing them rub Ducati's nose in it with that bike, I had promised myself I had to have one one day! I bought my first one 3 years ago, a mint 2000 model. some minor mods have been done ie. Akra exhaust, PC3, suspension tweaks...but this bike is everything I thought it would be, build quality from heaven, attention to detail and one of the most gorgeous silhouettes ever. I smile from ear to ear every time the fairing is off and I see the HRC logo on the crankcase. I have recently bought a second one to use on the track. It is a 'basic racer' and was built by Honda as a track only version. On the track this bike is awesome, not the fastest anymore but I don't care it is definitely the most special when on the track......
My next purchase will be an SP2 so I can complete the collection........I just wish Honda would build bikes like this again!

Ride Quality & Brakes

5 out of 5

-

Engine

5 out of 5

-

Build Quality & Reliability

5 out of 5

-

Value & Running Costs

5 out of 5

-

Equipment

5 out of 5

-

5 out of 5

The finest real world sports bike

19 March 2014
by
Anonymous

Having owned a few superbikes since passing my test in 2010 (Gixxer 750, RSV4R Aprilia, Duc 996R)the SP2 is the only one that really ticks all the boxes for me. It has the comfort and ergonomics of the Gixxer, the charisma of the RSV4 and a better soundtrack than the Duc.
I got tired of having to ride everywhere at 8000RPM on the Suzuki just so there was instant power to overtake, I got bored with neck ache on the Duc, and the sphincter loosening power of the RSV4 (plus the lack of wind protection on its mini-moto dimensions) made the Aprilia a bike that could only be enjoyed when in the right mood..
No, the SP2 is a real world superbike that just works on the road - it's small, but comfortable, it's got instant power but doesn't need electronics to stop you looping it, it has charisma in spades but isn't a pain to live with (it's a Honda after all. And the noise from the carbon Akrapovic cans is pure adrenal music - it barks on start-up, it bangs, crackles and pops on over-run, and on full power the hard edged blast is awesome!
There is currently no other bike on offer, new or used, that tempts me to want to change the SP2, I just love everything about it!
If only Honda (or any other manufacturer) had the courage to offer a real world superbike like the SP2 today - just make it a little lighter, improve the range to 150 miles, tweak the styling to bring it up to date and I think they would have a winner.
My advice is to grab an SP2 while there are still a few about..

Ride Quality & Brakes

5 out of 5

-

Engine

5 out of 5

-

Build Quality & Reliability

5 out of 5

-

Value & Running Costs

5 out of 5

-

Equipment

4 out of 5

-

5 out of 5

Alternatives?

09 September 2013
by
Detritus0010

I've had my SP1 since 2001. Reg RC51 HRC. Keep test riding shiny new metal then get her out of the garage for a blast over the moors and fall in love all over again. There is no alternative

Ride Quality & Brakes

5 out of 5

-

Engine

5 out of 5

-

Build Quality & Reliability

5 out of 5

-

Value & Running Costs

5 out of 5

-

Equipment

5 out of 5

-

5 out of 5

HRC on the road

18 April 2013
by
paulsp

The shere quality of my sp2 tells me it,s from the HRC stable and not your typical mass produced road bike. After years of in line fours it came as a bit of a shock at first but now I would not change for anything else. If you,re worried about a bit of low speed snatch (minor) or the pathetic tank range then you should not be looking at this bike in the first place. On the other hand if you are prepared to junk the overweight; over baffled cans and fit a power commander then you have a hell of a beast on hand that will give you all the bike experience you can ever want! (or handle) A true classic!

Ride Quality & Brakes

5 out of 5

-

Engine

4 out of 5

-

Build Quality & Reliability

5 out of 5

-

Value & Running Costs

5 out of 5

-

Equipment

5 out of 5

-

5 out of 5

Perfect

05 April 2012
by
shaunrimmer

I've had my SP1 for 6/7 year now and its the mutts nuts as far as I'm concerned. I'm a reasonably big bloke and this was the last of the proper muscle bikes, so it doesnt feelm like I'm riding a mini-moto! I've got a set of blue flames, with the baffles out and the sound is to behold! Downside is fuel economy, but quite frankly if you're worried about fuel economy, then you're looking at the wrong type of bike - better off taking a look at a nice Bandit or Fazer!!!

Ride Quality & Brakes

5 out of 5

-

Engine

5 out of 5

-

Build Quality & Reliability

5 out of 5

-

Value & Running Costs

5 out of 5

-

Equipment

5 out of 5

-

5 out of 5

Buy one and fall in love

04 November 2011
by
pumpkinescobar

I've had my SP1 for nearly 5 years now and, inevitably, I've occasionally thought about getting something else. But then I think, what would I replace it with?
As many other people here have mentioned, it's a bike Honda built to prove a point, so that alone makes it special. The noise, ye gods, the noise! Gear driven cams, handles like it's on rails, bulletproof reliability. It's not perfect, but that's what gives it personality, right? :)
To get the best out of it you certainly need to spend a bit of money (nice cans at the minimum, plus the suspension needs sorting), but for something with this much character, quality and style (how many other 10 year old bikes look this good?) it really is worth it.
To DARMHA900SS below: A PC will sort out most of your issues, it's a decade-old big twin so it's always going to be a bit lumpy. 20k miles is barely run in, enjoy!

Ride Quality & Brakes

5 out of 5

-

Engine

5 out of 5

-

Build Quality & Reliability

5 out of 5

-

Value & Running Costs

4 out of 5

-

Equipment

3 out of 5

-

5 out of 5

HELP!!

28 September 2011
by
DARMHA900SS

This is not a review, it's a plea for advice.
I am about to do the best thing I have ever done in my life, or the most stupid thing. I am English but I live in Brasil. I have just found a Honda RC51 RVT1000 (2000 Model)with 20,000 Miles on the clock. It's the same bike as a European SP1. I would like advice about how to cure the "on-off" throttle responce at town speeds. Is it an easy fix with a power commander? If so, which one do I need? Any help would be greatly apreciated. Bikes generally cost a fortune over here but this one is going for a good price.

Ride Quality & Brakes

5 out of 5

-

Engine

5 out of 5

-

Build Quality & Reliability

5 out of 5

-

Value & Running Costs

5 out of 5

-

Equipment

5 out of 5

-

5 out of 5

It Rocks and then some

02 September 2011
by
Alexandra

Best bike i have ever had. I always wanted this bike when it was released and waited ten years before i could finally afford one. What can i say? It is perfection. Ignore all the negative comments. Most people who write stuff, have never ridden one. I fitted a Power Coomander and low and behold i get 150 miles before the light comes when travelling. My blade or cbr6 only managed 110 miles average. I now get from brighton to manchester on one fuel stop. She handles like a dream, got to be firm yes. I could waffle on for ages. Ride one and make your own conclusion. Yes she is like Usain Bolt out of the Blocks. Ride one, and realise as Honda says, What dreams are made of.

Ride Quality & Brakes

5 out of 5

-

Engine

5 out of 5

-

Build Quality & Reliability

5 out of 5

-

Value & Running Costs

5 out of 5

-

Equipment

5 out of 5

-

5 out of 5

Best bike i have owned

30 August 2011
by
fitzy2009

Ive owned many bikes over the years from suzuki to ducatis and have been riding for 14 years now. Every bike i have had i have found fault with so have changed them in less than a year. I have now owned my sp1 for 3 years now and its never let me down. When i bought it i had test rode a 2006 rsv and was set on getting one, then i rode the sp1 and then just had to buy it. Had the money to buy an sp2 but loved the red of the sp1. This bike feels like it was made for me. Its not the fastest bike in the world but with the right rider as fast enough to keep up with most bikes on the road. I have test rode all the latest 1000cc superbikes and none feel and special as my sp1. Yes the new crop of bikes are faster but i didnt jump back on my bike and think it was slow because its not. Best bike i have owned!

Ride Quality & Brakes

5 out of 5

-

Engine

5 out of 5

-

Build Quality & Reliability

5 out of 5

-

Value & Running Costs

5 out of 5

-

Equipment

5 out of 5

-

3 out of 5

Let down

19 August 2011
by
Feakster

"It's ok"... That's the best I can do to sum up my 3 weeks of ownership. I bought this with the expressed intention of selling my RSV, but I ended up selling the SP2. I couldn't help but feel a tad let down. All the reviews and hype about this bike said it was brilliant. I have no doubt it's very reliable, and that it'll be a future classic, but after you fork out your £3k - £6k you have to ask yourself "what have I really got for my money?" From the point of view of riding... you have fat pig that gets dragged wide by it's titanic weight in fast or long corners, an excessively snatchy throttle to irritate you in slow corners or round town, & a petrol black hole to financially f*ck you off (It's worse than my RSV... an impressive feat!).
It's a very pretty bike, but you can't help but want it to be better than it is... & the sad fact is that it just isn't.

Ride Quality & Brakes

3 out of 5

-

Engine

4 out of 5

-

Build Quality & Reliability

5 out of 5

-

Value & Running Costs

2 out of 5

-

Equipment

3 out of 5

-

5 out of 5

Motorcycling Icon

16 July 2011
by
sandmacker

I thought long and hard before settling for the SP2. I looked at the Aprilia RSV factory and the Ducati 999/916 SPS. Why the Honda ? Reliability and build quality. This bike is one of the motorcycle greats, and in my short time with it, I've come to realise this is one of the best investments I've ever made.
It has everything you need on a bike , and what is does have is pure class.
Comfort and fuel range in my opinion arn't an issue considering the way it is mean't to be ridden , being > hard. And in that it shines.
It's a very intergrated bike with it all coming together so sweetly.
Over the course of history there are certain motorcyces that truly step up as one of the greats ; The Vincent , Ducati 916 SPS ,MV 750 RC 45 and so on .
You'd be hard pressed not to inclue the RC51 in that list. HRC do not press their name into the motor sidecases unless they know it will deliver, and it did.
A bike that was purposely built to be the best in it's game.
By now you know what it does, and you know by these other reports it excels in what it is meant to do. Be a fantastic ride
Did it succeed ? Now tell me your not going to get one.

Ride Quality & Brakes

5 out of 5

-

Engine

5 out of 5

-

Build Quality & Reliability

5 out of 5

-

Value & Running Costs

5 out of 5

-

Equipment

5 out of 5

-

5 out of 5

Sublime

23 November 2010
by
meatbomb

The most perfect, beautiful and exciting bike I've ever ridden. The noise the vibration, the torque, oh the torque...

Ride Quality & Brakes

5 out of 5

-

Engine

5 out of 5

-

Build Quality & Reliability

5 out of 5

-

Value & Running Costs

5 out of 5

-

Equipment

5 out of 5

-

5 out of 5

at last!!

23 March 2010
by
fozzy955

traded my mv f4 1000 ( high priced junk! )for new 08 plate SP2,never looked back. miles better handling than the mv + more reliable.have rode the wheels of it since. snatchey at first but followed advice from usa forum and set up the throttle bodies,much better + micron cans ( remember them!! ).now goes and sounds like it should.if you are thinking about it just do it!!.the sound alone is worth it,no multi ever sounds this good.

Ride Quality & Brakes

5 out of 5

-

Engine

5 out of 5

-

Build Quality & Reliability

5 out of 5

-

Value & Running Costs

5 out of 5

-

Equipment

4 out of 5

-

5 out of 5

just call me mr edwards

28 February 2010
by
sp2mike

I bought my SP2 last spring after riding a FZR400RR for a year. This is my first "big" bike and it's sooo easy to go fast on, instant pull out of the corners plus you get to feel like colin edwards everytime you go down the gears on the brakes!
Only two suspension settings, hard or really hard, and can't really go much further then 95 miles on a tank.
don't expect a rear to last too long either!

Ride Quality & Brakes

4 out of 5

-

Engine

5 out of 5

-

Build Quality & Reliability

5 out of 5

-

Value & Running Costs

4 out of 5

-

Equipment

5 out of 5

-

5 out of 5

Love it :)

22 February 2010
by
Anonymous

Managed to get my paws on a 2001 SP1 just after Christmas 09. After a string of different bikes from 2 strokes to big twins. These included a TLS, VTR1000F and a Buell XB.
The SP is ace, completely fallen in love with this bike and I've only managed to cover about 350 miles so far. Popped over 160 on it this past weekend.
Compared to my previous bikes it's very different-the only thing similar is the V-twin engine configuration. The Buell was a hoot but was likely to cost me a lot at some point or eat itself. The VTR1000F was well made but felt more like a tourer-it lacked any poise. The TL was, well, a TL. Good engine-pants handling and build. I'll leave it at that :)
The SP is quality-it's well made, excellently finished and the engine is the best V-Twin I've ridden. Plus the chassis can handle the power which makes corner exit drive breath taking. It also has kudos which I feel a lot of modern bikes lack.
I'm just in the process of sticking a pair of cans on it-apart from that it's staying standard. Only thing I think it’d benefit from is some suspension tweaks. Tank range varies depending on how you use your right hand and the gearbox. I've never owned a V-Twin that offered brilliant fuel economy tbh.
Prices are at the best they’ll get to atm imo so if you see one in the right condition grab it! I can only see the value of these bikes going up in coming years.
I'm pretty sure any recent IL4 would hammer this bike on paper. Most will leave it in a straight line drag on the road. It is a riders bike so therefore requires a little more input to get the best from it. I find this style more satisfying :)it does hold a line lovely too.
So, 1000 IL4 or SP? After running a 929 Blade for a lengthly period some years back I can give an opinion...
Surfice to say I know which I'd rather be opening my garage upto for a ride out :) and I know which I'd rather be on :)
Keep your Blades, GSXR's and big bang R1's-park em next to the rest :)…yawn…
Sell this? I'd rather lose a kidney.
If you want a bike that’s not ten a penny, goes like stink, sounds awesome, keeps with anything modern, handles beautifully and has a sprinkling of HRC magic walk this way. SP’s rock!!! :) And that’s why I bought one :)

Ride Quality & Brakes

5 out of 5

-

Engine

5 out of 5

-

Build Quality & Reliability

5 out of 5

-

Value & Running Costs

5 out of 5

-

Equipment

5 out of 5

-

5 out of 5

Real world Racer

12 October 2009
by
BeamishBlade

Recently sold a two stroke (see Blade reviews for explanation)09 Fireblade and bought one of my all time favourite bikes the SP2. Ducatis look sublime but after a ride out i want to come home on a bike and not sat in the cab of an AA vehicle (obviously not all Dukes are like that ;-p). The SP does not mess about, its 40 HP down on my Blade but it is a very fast road machine. Where the Blade was easy the SP is challenging. Where the Blade wanted to wheely the SP just squats down and rockets fwd. Cr8p in 30 mph zones but get to your favourite A-road and life doesnt get much better. Yes I would'nt be able to beat a similar skill level of rider on my 09 Blade but my satisfaction of ownership and the feeling when I push the starter more than makes up for it. Dont be put off by horror fuel stories I rode to North Scotland and back in a weekend and managed 141 miles from a tank (Scotch Corner to LN4. If you are on it you can get the light on before 100 miles but who cares. This bike oozes quality. How many 1999-2000 bikes are worth 3K? Not too many I'll wager.

Ride Quality & Brakes

5 out of 5

-

Engine

4 out of 5

-

Build Quality & Reliability

5 out of 5

-

Value & Running Costs

4 out of 5

-

Equipment

4 out of 5

-

5 out of 5

Mutts Nutts

25 February 2009
by
Rimbo

Had an SP1 for about three years now and wouldn't change it for the world. I've owned a succession of various in line 4's (CBR's etc) and this thing blows them away. Thought long and hard about what I ACTUALLY wanted a bike for and at the end of the day it was for head turning fun. If this is what you're after, then look no further. Believe me, you can get the most jazzed up, tarty looking Blade, R1, GSX etc turn up at a meet and they'll be appreciated - when you role up on an SP1/2 with your blueflames burbling away, everyone starts looking your way.
Ride is hard but liveable (I went across France on mine without any issues), fuel economy is pants (the main review states 30mpg - I get closer to 20mpg) and they can be demanding on tricky roads. All in all though, I lurve it and can't wait for the sun to shine!!

Ride Quality & Brakes

5 out of 5

-

Engine

4 out of 5

-

Build Quality & Reliability

5 out of 5

-

Value & Running Costs

5 out of 5

-

Equipment

4 out of 5

-

0 out of 5

devil with indigestion

29 January 2009
by
H2pots

i've owned my sp2 for 3 years. love it. at first it was a snatchy sod at low speed, now great after fitting blue flame cans (sorted fulling no end). sounds like the devil with indigestion...love it. handling is great on the twisties, heavy on wrist through town, but hey... if you wanna commuter buy a cbf. looks differant and sounds it too. honda should be updating it but no change for a while now... nowt out there that takes my eye so i'll be sticking with it (no complaints there)

Ride Quality & Brakes

0 out of 5

-

Engine

0 out of 5

-

Build Quality & Reliability

0 out of 5

-

Value & Running Costs

0 out of 5

-

Equipment

0 out of 5

-

0 out of 5

devil with indigestion

29 January 2009
by
H2pots

i've owned my sp2 for 3 years. love it. at first it was a snatchy sod at low speed, now great after fitting blue flame cans (sorted fulling no end). sounds like the devil with indigestion...love it. handling is great on the twisties, heavy on wrist through town, but hey... if you wanna commuter buy a cbf. looks differant and sounds it too. honda should be updating it but no change for a while now... nowt out there that takes my eye so i'll be sticking with it (no complaints there)

Ride Quality & Brakes

0 out of 5

-

Engine

0 out of 5

-

Build Quality & Reliability

0 out of 5

-

Value & Running Costs

0 out of 5

-

Equipment

0 out of 5

-

0 out of 5

devil with indigestion

29 January 2009
by
H2pots

i've owned my sp2 for 3 years. love it. at first it was a snatchy sod at low speed, now great after fitting blue flame cans (sorted fulling no end). sounds like the devil with indigestion...love it. handling is great on the twisties, heavy on wrist through town, but hey... if you wanna commuter buy a cbf. looks differant and sounds it too. honda should be updating it but no change for a while now... nowt out there that takes my eye so i'll be sticking with it (no complaints there)

Ride Quality & Brakes

0 out of 5

-

Engine

0 out of 5

-

Build Quality & Reliability

0 out of 5

-

Value & Running Costs

0 out of 5

-

Equipment

0 out of 5

-

0 out of 5

devil with indigestion

29 January 2009
by
H2pots

i've owned my sp2 for 3 years. love it. at first it was a snatchy sod at low speed, now great after fitting blue flame cans (sorted fulling no end). sounds like the devil with indigestion...love it. handling is great on the twisties, heavy on wrist through town, but hey... if you wanna commuter buy a cbf. looks differant and sounds it too. honda should be updating it but no change for a while now... nowt out there that takes my eye so i'll be sticking with it (no complaints there)

Ride Quality & Brakes

0 out of 5

-

Engine

0 out of 5

-

Build Quality & Reliability

0 out of 5

-

Value & Running Costs

0 out of 5

-

Equipment

0 out of 5

-

5 out of 5

HRC says it all

25 November 2008
by
v2kiwi

I ve been riding an SP2 for 3 years now and it,s not the fastest ,most powerful , or most compliant handler, but every time the Akrapovic ,s wistle a tune you don,t want any other bike. The harder you ride it the better it works. Only Honda with HRC on the engine. I ve even considered buying a new one from england . Its much more satisfiying rocking up at the cafe on a bike that stands out among the eleventeen Blades and 43 R1s. Besides that it,s never gunna be the old modle is it. It,s THE modle. The best Honda money can buy. What do you really want out of a bike. After all we are only riding on the road and any modern sports bike will more than outperform most of our capabillity,s in road conditions. I hit a bouncing rabbit ( kangaroo) once that tames you down a bit. ( livin the dream in oz, We won the Rugby world cup too did ya hear.

Ride Quality & Brakes

4 out of 5

-

Engine

5 out of 5

-

Build Quality & Reliability

5 out of 5

-

Value & Running Costs

5 out of 5

-

Equipment

5 out of 5

-

5 out of 5

michaelSP2

24 November 2008
by
michaelpoplett

Uncomfortable, poor range? Who cares, this bike was not made for shopping,and the seat is not really for sitting in, it's a track bike and a hoot into the bargain. Hello Honda, are you there? You should have kept on with this bike, it leaves a gaping hole in you product range.

Ride Quality & Brakes

5 out of 5

-

Engine

4 out of 5

-

Build Quality & Reliability

5 out of 5

-

Value & Running Costs

5 out of 5

-

Equipment

5 out of 5

-

5 out of 5

A classic!

11 September 2008
by
dinan3er

It was the bike that actually drew my attention away from cars! Now, experiencing the dream, the bike hasn't failed to excite. Sure, bike technology has made leaps and bounds since the SP1/2s introduction, but the VTR still brings a smile to my face every time I ride it.

Ride Quality & Brakes

4 out of 5

-

Engine

5 out of 5

-

Build Quality & Reliability

5 out of 5

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Value & Running Costs

5 out of 5

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Equipment

5 out of 5

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5 out of 5

this bike rocks!

09 August 2008
by
itty

i live in bangkok, 1 of the worst motorbike cities in the world. english roads are silk in comparison, and no-one on the m25 knows what traffic really is! my past is gsxr and r1, and never liked twins. got sp1, 8yrs old now, never honda serviced! first few weeks, missed my gixxer so much, but as i got to 'feel' this bike more and more, it made more and more sense and i have to admit that this bike rocks!! i ride it like a currier in downtown traffic, then hit speeds of 150mph+ on open roads bumpy like the alps! this bike is mint, excellent quality - nothing even minor wrong with it. amazing shocks, and it loves to fly. nothing has unsettled this bike and i've put it through hell (serious headcase speed-freak!). still miss the noise and all roundedness of the gixxer (750), but the gixxer is so easy to ride (fast), a novice can get a lot out of it. this bike requires relationship-building with owner, and rewards with miles of smiles. there is so much power low down, yet still goes balistic higher up, especially in 3rd and 4th at near full rpm. i just can't describe the attachement with this bike? special in undescribable ways. whoever owns one of these and rides it "with respect" is missing the point. this bike just wants to prove to you that it is even better than you imagine! its not a nutter like the king, but it has in it more than you know, and the more you know and push it, the more it continues to surprise with its invincible capabilities. nearly 2 years and i am still getting surprises with this bike.
i will go back to a gixxer soon as speed is the thrill, but there is no other bike that is 8 years old that can rival this bike, and if i can't afford to keep 2 bikes, i will always miss this bike and the amazments it just kep dishing out to me. serious respect to honda!
press reviews make me think i should be a tt rider! what are these people talking about? twitchy throttle, heavy, hard to launch, choppy ride, etc? i think they must be 8stone stick-men in touch with their feminine side or lazy by nature? i'm 6ft, 15stone and nothing about this bike is negative for me, not even the low seat height. very comfy, usable and totally solid. the more you learn about this bikem, the more it shocks and the more every single detail makes complete sense.
a living classic!
QUESTION - IS GASSOHOL 95 OR 91 OK TO USE?
(ok, 1 negative which is forgiving, fuel economy - i get more from my pickup than this bike! lol)

Ride Quality & Brakes

5 out of 5

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Engine

5 out of 5

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Build Quality & Reliability

5 out of 5

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Value & Running Costs

5 out of 5

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Equipment

5 out of 5

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5 out of 5

Love It!

04 July 2008
by
Slicky Boy

After much deliberating, I bought my SP1 after selling my R6 and it was the best decision i made. They are a bit of a beast, but I absolutely love the rawness of it - it's what riding a bike is all about (you can ,however, make it a bit smoother by adding a power commander and dropping one tooth in the front sprocket). I don't seem to have a problem with the tank range (it doesn't seem much different to my 6 to be honest) and would recommend one all day long -I get a real buzz from riding it and would never sell it!

Ride Quality & Brakes

4 out of 5

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Engine

5 out of 5

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Build Quality & Reliability

5 out of 5

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Value & Running Costs

5 out of 5

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Equipment

4 out of 5

-

5 out of 5

oh

04 April 2008
by
binky

how I miss my SP1 .... only the tank range made change it .... if they did the SP2 in red I'd buy one tomorrow

Ride Quality & Brakes

5 out of 5

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Engine

5 out of 5

-

Build Quality & Reliability

4 out of 5

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Value & Running Costs

5 out of 5

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Equipment

4 out of 5

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5 out of 5

The best, simple as that.

05 December 2007
by
rvf_rc45

Took a test ride on my SP2 just over a year ago, & was sold straight away, & it hasn't failed to impress since.
Considering the kind of bike this is (basically a race bike with lights on) it's so easy to ride, & the quicker you ride the better it handles. It's sort of like a fast VFR, but without the comfort. Having said that it's not that bad, sure in town it's not the most comfortable of bikes, as you'd expect, but get out on the open road & comfort isn't an issue.
Similarly fuel consumption isn't as bad as some would have you believe. Even with spirited riding (enough to get me a stretch with bubba) I haven't seen anything lower than 42 mpg, & have even got as much as 50 mpg with relaxed riding.
Build quality is superb, as you'd expect from a Honda, but it's not just typical Honda quality, it really does ooze quality wherever you look.
Interestingly whenever I park near or next to a Ducati, it's always the SP that gets the admiring looks.

Ride Quality & Brakes

5 out of 5

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Engine

5 out of 5

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Build Quality & Reliability

5 out of 5

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Value & Running Costs

5 out of 5

-

Equipment

5 out of 5

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5 out of 5

Everyone should have one

03 September 2007
by
BRAD-SP1

I have had my '01 SP1 for about a year now and i use it every single day for work. It puts a smile on your face in the mornings, i just love this bike, even with the quirky throttle, plus it is the most awesome sounding bike on the planet! I have the twat who knocked me off my 600RR to thank for the opportunity to buy this truly superb motorcycle.

Ride Quality & Brakes

5 out of 5

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Engine

5 out of 5

-

Build Quality & Reliability

5 out of 5

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Value & Running Costs

5 out of 5

-

Equipment

5 out of 5

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5 out of 5

In love again

23 August 2007
by
BJSP1000

I owned an SP1 from 2002-2004 and regretted selling it almost straight away. I'd put wp shocks front and back, steering damper, mag wheels, hugger, erion pipes..spent a fortune then bought a gixer 750 and spent the next few years asking myself why???? Six week ago I spotted it for sale in my local dealer went straight in and bought it back. It has 10,000 more miles on it but runs and goes as good as it did first time I owned it...a testiment to Honda quality...and looks as good too. I've had Blackbirds, Vfrs, an R1 & a gixer...the SP! is without a doubt the best bike I've owned. Buy one and you'll not be sorry. Sure there are faster 100 4's out there but the big twin is packed full os soul and raw racebred emotion.

Ride Quality & Brakes

5 out of 5

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Engine

5 out of 5

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Build Quality & Reliability

5 out of 5

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Value & Running Costs

5 out of 5

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Equipment

4 out of 5

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5 out of 5

Like the ad says "just do it!"

30 May 2007
by
VTR-SP2

I have admired the SP2 for a long time now, but have been put off by reading too many articles about poor comfort, lack of range, tall gearing etc. But when I took one for a test ride that was it, I had to have it! I am 6'2" and on the wrong side of large but have no problem with the comfort, in fact I feel more at home than on my old busa! I have twice got over 110 miles from a tank without any warning lights coming on and yes the first gear is tall requiring you to slip the clutch, but this isn't a major issue. A bit of suspension work and some nice exhausts to release that V-twin sound and I'll be a happy man!

Ride Quality & Brakes

5 out of 5

-

Engine

5 out of 5

-

Build Quality & Reliability

5 out of 5

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Value & Running Costs

5 out of 5

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Equipment

4 out of 5

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5 out of 5

Stunning looks and performance to match.

19 October 2006
by
theboysteve

The bike Honda built to beat Ducati in WSB (and it did) was always going to be a classic. The bike is awsome with loads of torque and a feeling you get from only a V twin. Yes, the bike is very focussed but, what do you expect? Loads of HRC design and tech stuff. When you buy one first thing you need to do is look at getting the suspension set up properley. When first ridden you will notice how hard the set up feels but, dont forget this bike is straight from WSB and has race pedigree written all over it. Once you are used to that side of the bike, the rest falls into place and the art of riding a race bred V twin begins!! Strengths: HRC design and technology.It's gorgeous. The motor is bullet proof. It sounds awsome. Weaknesses: Tank range (light on at around 90/100 miles)

Ride Quality & Brakes

5 out of 5

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Engine

5 out of 5

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Build Quality & Reliability

5 out of 5

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Value & Running Costs

5 out of 5

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Equipment

4 out of 5

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5 out of 5

05' bought for £6000 with a measly 547 miles on the clock,, 3300 quid saving.bring it on...

25 July 2006
by
rapid6

I bought a vtr firestorm which I loved and then a gixer 600,but new it should've been the sp2, which later followed. after 10 minutes on the bike, I was in biking nirvana,in the last 3 weeks, I have never been out on any bike so much, the torque is awsome, and that v-twin boom is unbeatable, my mates hate coming out with me now, because everyone stares at the sp as we go by...they don't get a look in....(shame) feel free to read the press reports,,,not always the best,,,but ride the bike yourself and you wont want anything else. Strengths: Looks, sounds, presence, balance on road. Weaknesses: People say suspension is hard..which it is,, but there is a lot of adjustability for that reason..find out what suits, aint that difficult to put back to standard if you muck it up,,,fuel aint what the press say either...110-128 before fuel warning, medium to hard riding.

Ride Quality & Brakes

5 out of 5

-

Engine

5 out of 5

-

Build Quality & Reliability

5 out of 5

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Value & Running Costs

5 out of 5

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Equipment

4 out of 5

-

5 out of 5

Racer for the Road

30 January 2006
by
crowbird69

Having leapt from a 2001 R6 to the SP2, I am learning what torque is once more. Careful on the throttle on winter days, the tyre spins if you give it a bit too much. Never a problem with the Yamaha. Crouch down, listen to the bellow of the twin cans and imagine Troy Bayliss is just behind you. That is what this bike is all about. Fantastic! Fuelling and tall first gear make life difficult untill you adapt to slipping the clutch until the speedo shows 30mph. Fuel economy? Not as bad as I thought. An R6 shows its reserve light at 100 - 120 miles so the Honda is no worse. Strengths: Race attitude, sound, handling, torque, build quality. Weaknesses: Tall first gear.

Ride Quality & Brakes

5 out of 5

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Engine

5 out of 5

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Build Quality & Reliability

5 out of 5

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Value & Running Costs

5 out of 5

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Equipment

4 out of 5

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5 out of 5

Fantastic bike, my second and not as uncomfortable as some say.

29 September 2005
by
royeggleston

Blackbird and Fireblade owner and previously SP2 owner I have just returned to the sp because it is a brilliant bike and at 6ft 1inch and 15 stone I have no problem with its comfort in fact I changed from the blade partly due to that. It handles superbly and sounds fantastic also a real eye catcher. If you are looking to buy one don't let anyone put you off, just do it you will not regret your decision, always park next to a ducati and watch their owners faces its fun! shame Colin is not on one anymore. Strengths: Honda Reliability, Service costs, Looks, Sound, Handling, Fun Factor, Not everybody has one, should I go on! oh! the missus says it is far better on pillion than Blade. Weaknesses: Uncomfortable I suppose if you are 8 ft tall, if you are tall do not let it put you off!

Ride Quality & Brakes

5 out of 5

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Engine

5 out of 5

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Build Quality & Reliability

5 out of 5

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Value & Running Costs

5 out of 5

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Equipment

4 out of 5

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5 out of 5

Second SP2 I have owned

06 June 2005
by
Scorptc

I have had / ridden a number of bikes and consider the SP2 to be one of the best V twins around, it has great reliability and build quality and it corners like its on rails, the sheer torque tries to pull your arms from your sockets as you exit the corners with consummate ease, a blast to ride as long as you are not going through too many towns (something you get used to, being able to ride one that is). A few must have aftermarket components to enhance your sp2 would be exhausts, a power commander, and a sprocket change, but above all get the suspension set up for your weight and height it transforms your SP2 into the bike it was intended to be! Strengths: ITS A HONDA AND A V TWIN. Weaknesses: Can be a bit of a pig a low RPM through town if you have not ridden one before and are not used to it, you soon learn, or get a Power Commander. Stock suspension set up is far to hard for road use, needs to be adjusted for the ultimate ride, cost range from £20 to £150 to get it set up for your weight and height, trust me get it done, it will be the best money you spent on it!!

Ride Quality & Brakes

5 out of 5

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Engine

5 out of 5

-

Build Quality & Reliability

5 out of 5

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Value & Running Costs

5 out of 5

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Equipment

4 out of 5

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5 out of 5

Somewhat controversial bike which is loved by anyone who buys one.

09 August 2004
by
pcll

The sp-2 has had a mixed reception in the bike press although it now seems at last to be more appreciated. This is a true race replica for the road but it needs a bit of adjusting to get it right for each individual rider. I have tried numerous suspension settings and think I have found the ideal combination. A power commander is a must as it transforms throttle response. The stock cans are o.k. but you really need race ends to get that real v-twin sound. This is really a great motorcycle by any standards. Strengths: Handling, finish, performance, looks. Weaknesses: Can't think of any except tank range but hey this is a race replica!